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Product Details
* A .577/450 MARTINI-HENRY MARK II TYPE SERVICE RIFLE STAMPED 'OVS', serial no. 3781,
circa 1896, with 32 1/2in. sighted barrel, Birmingham proof-marks, bridge stamped '3781', tilting block action, right side of receiver stamped 'OVS', full stock, forend attached with the Mark II type fixing, butt with carved initials, 'BB' to right and 'SM' to left, some parts Broad Arrow, and 'WD' marked, complete with sling swivels, clearing rod absent, rear sight bent, has an old coating of what appears to be now-dried grease to metal parts
Provenance: This gun was consigned from South Africa and the OVS stamping implies past ownership by Oranje Vrystaat (Orange Free State). In 1896, P. Webley & Son of Birmingham received a contract from OVS for 1,500 Martini-Henrys. These were based on the British Mark II and recycled War Department parts were often used. These Martinis were usually stamped 'OVS' on the left side of the receiver plus small 1.5 to 2 mm script giving manufacturer and patent details. Most noticeable was the Webley 'winged bullet' on the nocksform barrel bridge. On this gun, the nocksform appears to have been scrubbed and a serial number in a more modern style applied to the new surface. The Webley contract appears to be the closest match to this rifle. The carved butt initials is typical of the period, as is the application of grease on the metal parts to prevent rusting when used out on the veldt
* Please note this item is subject to 5% VAT on the hammer price (UK Buyers only).
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Estimate £500-700
Sold as an exempt item under Section 58 (2) of the 1968 Firearms Act, to be held as a curiosity or ornament